A RECORD turn-out of 289 runners braved the tough course to race the Tintern Trot last week.

The hilly, off-road, six-mile race, organised by Chepstow Harriers, packed a real punch with 260 metres of ascent.

The course started and finished at the Tintern end of the old railway bridge, next to the Abbey Mill.

The route crossed the bridge, and then followed the river for about a mile, along the course of the old railway line.

It then climbed up through the woods to reach Offa’s Dyke path, going north along the path for a mile or so before descending past HAPPA horse sanctuary in Brockweir.

And a final undulating stretch took the runners back to Tintern.

The first three men home were Peter Ryder from Cardiff AAC, Stephen Bartlett from Pontypridd Roadents and Marcus Bennetto from Forest of Dean.

The first three women were Rhian Jinny-Jones from Bristol & West, Kate Roby from MDC and Niki Morgan from Chepstow Harriers.

Veterans prizes were awarded to Rob Cowlard, Jonathon Gledson, Stuart Penny, Christopher Jones, David George, Gareth Jones, Carl Elliot, Nicky McWilliam, Lou Summers, Stefanie Francis, Julie Scholey and Catherine Fagg.

Forest of Dean won the men’s team prize with Marcus Bennetto, Dan Sandford, Jack Fleet and Mark Matthews scoring.

Chepstow Harriers won the women’s team prize with Niki Morgan, Lisa Jeffrey and Rachel Hipkiss scoring.

Given the challenging nature of the course with its twisting, turning paths, and fast and furious descents, there were a couple of incidents requiring hospital visits.

Thankfully no bones were broken and the competitors are recovering well.

Race director Dave Andrews said “I was delighted with the exceptional turnout of runners at this low-key, midweek event.

“It’s gaining a reputation for having a great, friendly atmosphere, and a lovely, scenic, challenging, off-road course.

“Competitors particularly appreciate the free beer and cake at the finish. Thanks to the many helpers and marshals from Chepstow Harriers, the race was a great success.”